Low Carb Recipe for Navy Bean Soup
Looking for a hearty and satisfying soup that won't derail your low-carb eating plan? With only 13 grams of net carbs per cup, navy beans are a fantastic option. But how do you turn them into a delicious, low-carb soup that's packed with flavor and nutrients?
Well, you're in luck. This low-carb recipe for navy bean soup not only delivers on taste but also keeps the carb count in check. And the secret ingredient that gives this soup its creamy texture without adding extra carbs might surprise you.
Keep reading to discover how you can enjoy a comforting bowl of navy bean soup without sacrificing your low-carb lifestyle.
Nutritious and Filling Low-Carb Option
Looking for a nutritious and filling low-carb option that's also delicious and easy to make? Try this navy bean soup recipe for a satisfying and healthy meal. This hearty soup not only tastes amazing but is also packed with nutrients and is low in carbohydrates.
Here's why this navy bean soup is a fantastic low-carb option:
- High in protein: Navy beans are a great source of plant-based protein, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
- Low in carbs: With only 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this soup fits well into a low-carb lifestyle.
- Rich in fiber: Navy beans are loaded with fiber, promoting good digestion and helping to control blood sugar levels.
- Packed with nutrients: This soup is a powerhouse of essential nutrients like iron, folate, and B vitamins.
- Filling and satisfying: The combination of protein, fiber, and rich flavors makes this soup a truly satisfying meal option.
With these benefits, this navy bean soup is a great addition to your low-carb recipe collection. Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl while sticking to your low-carb goals.
Recipe
Alright, let's talk about the recipe for this delicious navy bean soup.
First, gather your ingredients, which include:
- Navy beans
- Onion
- Carrots
- Celery
- Garlic
- Savory spices
Then, we'll walk through the step-by-step directions to create a comforting and nutritious bowl of soup.
Ingredients
To make a delicious navy bean soup, gather the following ingredients and get ready to create a comforting and satisfying dish. Here's what you'll need:
Ingredients | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Navy beans | 1 lb | Dried |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Extra virgin |
Onion | 1 large | Finely chopped |
Carrots | 2 | Diced |
Celery | 2 stalks | Sliced |
Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
Bay leaf | 1 | Whole |
Thyme | 1 tsp | Fresh or dried |
Rosemary | 1 tsp | Fresh or dried |
Vegetable broth | 6 cups | Low-sodium |
Salt | To taste | |
Black pepper | To taste | Freshly ground |
These simple ingredients will come together to create a hearty and wholesome navy bean soup that's perfect for a nourishing meal.
Bean Puree Thickens Soup
Want to thicken your navy bean soup without using flour or cornstarch? Bean puree is the answer!
Not only does it add a creamy texture, but it also enhances the flavor of the soup.
Thickening With Bean Puree
Blend the navy beans into a smooth puree to naturally thicken your soup without the need for additional ingredients. This method not only adds creaminess but also boosts the nutritional value of your soup.
Once your navy beans are cooked, simply transfer them to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Then, stir the puree into your soup until you reach your desired thickness. This technique not only helps to thicken the soup but also adds a rich, velvety texture. It's a simple and effective way to achieve a hearty, satisfying soup without having to rely on flour or other thickeners.
Plus, using bean puree as a thickening agent is a great way to enhance the flavor and nutritional content of your dish.
Soup Consistency Improvement
Consider incorporating bean puree into your soup to naturally thicken and enhance its texture and flavor. Adding bean puree not only improves the consistency of the soup but also boosts its nutritional value.
To achieve a creamy and velvety texture, blend cooked navy beans with a small amount of liquid from the soup until smooth. Then, stir the puree back into the soup and let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
This method not only thickens the soup but also adds a rich, hearty flavor. It's a simple and effective way to elevate your navy bean soup, making it a satisfying and comforting meal.
Plus, using bean puree as a thickening agent is a healthier alternative to using flour or cream.
Creamy Texture Enhancement
Enhancing the creamy texture of your navy bean soup can be achieved by incorporating bean puree. This method not only thickens the soup but also adds a rich, hearty flavor while boosting its nutritional value.
To create a bean puree, simply blend a portion of the cooked navy beans with a small amount of broth until smooth. Then, stir the puree back into the soup to achieve a lusciously creamy consistency.
This technique not only enhances the texture of the soup but also adds a velvety mouthfeel that will elevate your dining experience. Additionally, the bean puree acts as a natural thickener, reducing the need for added cream or flour.
This simple yet effective method allows you to enjoy a luxuriously creamy soup without compromising your low-carb dietary goals.
Description
To create a flavorful navy bean soup, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large pot until they're fragrant and translucent. This will lay the foundation of rich and savory flavors for your soup. As the onions and garlic cook, their aroma will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delicious meal.
After sautéing the onions and garlic, you'll add in the navy beans, vegetable broth, and any additional seasonings or vegetables you desire. As the soup simmers, the navy beans will soften and absorb the savory flavors of the broth and aromatics, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. The beans will break down slightly, thickening the soup and creating a creamy texture that's both comforting and nourishing.
As the navy bean soup cooks, the flavors will meld together, resulting in a comforting and wholesome dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a nutritious option to enjoy for lunch, this navy bean soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
After savoring the rich and savory flavors of the navy bean soup, you may be curious about the nutrition facts per serving, providing insight into the wholesome benefits of this hearty dish. Here's a breakdown of the nutrition facts to help you make informed choices:
- Calories: A single serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal option.
- Protein: Each serving offers a substantial amount of protein, contributing to muscle repair and overall satiety.
- Fiber: With a high fiber content, this soup promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full for longer periods.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The navy bean soup is a good source of essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and folate, supporting overall well-being.
- Low Fat and Cholesterol: This soup is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy choice for individuals aiming to maintain a balanced diet.
These nutrition facts highlight the nourishing qualities of the navy bean soup, making it a wholesome and delicious addition to your meal repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Navy Bean Soup Be Made Ahead of Time and Frozen for Later Use?
Yes, you can absolutely make navy bean soup ahead of time and freeze it for later use. It's a great way to have a delicious meal ready to go when you're short on time.
Just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes to Serve With Navy Bean Soup?
You can pair navy bean soup with a variety of side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, crusty whole grain bread, or a light and flavorful quinoa salad.
For a heartier option, roasted vegetables or a simple grain pilaf can complement the soup nicely.
Don't forget to add a splash of color and flavor to your meal with some vibrant steamed or roasted vegetables.
Can I Substitute Navy Beans With Another Type of Bean in This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute navy beans with another type of bean in your recipe.
Black beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans are all great alternatives that can be used in place of navy beans.
Just be mindful of the cooking time and adjust as needed.
Experimenting with different beans can add variety and unique flavors to your soup while still keeping it low carb!
Are There Any Tips for Making the Soup Thicker or Creamier Without Using Bean Puree?
To thicken or cream up your soup without bean puree, try adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving. Both add richness without overpowering the flavors.
Another option is to blend in a small amount of heavy cream or coconut milk for a luscious, creamy texture.
To thicken things up, consider using xanthan gum or guar gum, as both are low-carb and effective at adding viscosity to soups.
Can I Use a Slow Cooker or Instant Pot to Make This Navy Bean Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use a slow cooker or instant pot to make this navy bean soup recipe. Both options are great for cooking dried beans and creating a flavorful, hearty soup.
Using a slow cooker will allow the flavors to meld together over several hours, while an instant pot can significantly reduce the cooking time.
Whichever method you choose, you'll end up with a delicious low carb navy bean soup.